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Steven Spielberg explains Smash involvement

Story by Jack Foley

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STEVEN Spielberg has revealed why he became involved with Smash, a new musical drama that goes behind-the-scenes of a Broadway musical.

Speaking on the official website of the show, the War Horse director said: “I’ve worked in a lot of genres and I’m sure I’m not the first person who comes to mind when you think of Broadway musical theatre.

“The truth is I’ve always had an interest in theatre, but what goes on behind all of that, before the curtain even goes up, is something that’s all together different.

“It’s that creative process that really fascinated me. [I thought] the competition, the creativity, the fights, arguments, dreams, egos, disappointments, energy would make a very compelling story, and a compelling story on a weekly basis, one that a television series could probably most effectively tell.”

Spielberg went on to predict that the show, which has been dubbed “Glee for grown-ups”, would appeal to audiences of every age irrespective of whether they’ve been to Broadway because it’s “about the drama of the characters” rather than the show.

Smash stars Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee and Anjelica Huston and takes a look at the preparations undertaken by a theatrical group to stage a new Broadway musical focusing on the life of Marilyn Monroe.

It is due to premiere on NBC in the States on February 6 and has been picked up by Sky Atlantic in the UK.